Report by Jerina Lewis
Pics: Stanley D’Souza
for Daijiworld Media Network - Dubai 

Dubai, Jun 2: ‘Jesus Mary Joseph’ (JMJ) a well-known Konkani prayer group of St Mary’s Church, Dubai, enthusiastically celebrated their third anniversary recently.

As the clock ticked 7:30 in the evening, the event began with group theme song ‘Jezu Mori Zuze’,  melodiously sung by the proficient JMJ choir.

Fr Freddy D’Souza, group’s spiritual director and assistant parish priest of St Mary’s Church, Boniface Carlo, main coordinator, St Mary’s Konkan Community (SMKC) Dubai and Leela D’Souza, secretary, St Mary’s parish council were present on the dais. 

Fr Freddy in his eloquent message to the audience emphasized on the altruistic service rendered by the core team in organizing weekly prayer gatherings of the group and stressed on the importance of attending such prayer meetings. During the event, Fr Freddy presented mementos to the outgoing core members Ivan Mathias, Bhaskar and Norbert Saldanha, acknowledging their three years of dedicated service. 

The list of the new core team and ministry members for 2008-2009 were also announced on the occasion.  Core member Richard D’Souza thanked each and everyone who contributed to the success of the prayer group and the event.

The much-awaited cultural programme began with a beautiful welcome song sung by little nightingales of the group.  Hilarious skit enacted by group members, brought smiles on the faces of every person present. A few catchy Konkani numbers sung by the members Lancy Noronha, Shyna Noronha and Jerina Lewis with foot tapping music by Vincy Rodrigues, Ozee Fernandes and Rony delighted the audience. 

Group advisor Lawrence D’Souza efficiently compered the programme and conducted  exciting spot prizes. Event concluded with delicious dinner by Al Shay restaurant, Karama. Precise timing, perfect flow of programmes and excellent entertainment were the highlights of the event that was well-appreciated by all.